The family of Oscar Pistorius is considering its options following the decision to suspend the athlete’s parole release.

“We accept the decision made by the minister of justice and are considering our options,” family spokesperson Anneliese Burgess told News24.

Correctional Services Minister Michael Masutha said the original decision to consider Pistorius for parole was made before he had served the required one-sixth of his sentence.

Masutha cited Section 73(7)(a) of the Correctional Services Act in explaining his decision.

“A person sentenced to incarceration under section 276(1)(i) of the Criminal Procedure Act, must serve at least one sixth of his or her sentence before being considered for placement under correctional supervisor, unless the court directs otherwise.”

“It is apparent therefore that the decision to release him on 21 August 2015 was made prematurely on 5 June 2015 when the offender was not eligible to be considered at all,” Masutha said.

Pistorius was sentenced to five years in prison for shooting girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, being found guilty of culpable homicide.